Alleviative pillow

Abstract

A back alleviative pillow uses hot and cold packs combined with memory foam in a pillow to provide comfort and alleviation from pain to an operator. The pillow includes a plurality of adjustable straps such that the pillow may be positioned at a desired location on the operator's body. The straps may secure the pillow to the operator, to a chair back, or other structure proximal to the desired point of contact on an operator's body.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This patent application is the national phase under 35 U.S.C. §371 of PCT International Application No PCT / US2011 / 040997 which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 356,336 filed on Jun. 18, 2010.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field[0003]The present invention relates to a therapeutic device and specifically to an alleviative pillow may be worn on a person, attached to a chair or otherwise placed in a plurality of ergonomic positions to improve comfort and health of the user.[0004]2. Background[0005]A large portion of the adult population experiences discomfort ranging from minor aches to chronic and persistent pain, often in the back. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), back pain affects eight out of 10 people at some point in their lives and is the most common cause of activity limitation for people under 45.[0006]Surgery is normally a last option, and often a desperate measure, all but a small percentage of...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The alleviative pillow is a comfortable and adjustable pillow that can be used at home, in the office, or on the go. It contains heating and cooling elements to provide relief and support for tired, aching backs. The pillow is designed to mold to the contour of the body, providing comfortable and firm support to maintain balanced spinal alignment. It can help alleviate back pain, muscle soreness, and stiffness associated with various health conditions. The alleviative pillow is easy to use, durable, reliable, and light-weight. Its technical effects are improved comfort, posture support, and the ability to apply heat or cooling to the body.

Problems solved by technology

Surgery is normally a last option, and often a desperate measure, all but a small percentage of sufferers elect other methods with which to live with the discomfort.

The market for lumbar support pillows is vast and developed, but fractured, with many types of inner “elements”, ranging from gel to seeds.

Electric pads are not particularly comfortable, and are not mobile.

They expend energy while in use, and are limited to home use, typically.

Ice packs require a waterproof aspect, to be affective, and normally are quick to thaw, melt, and lose their efficacy.

Seeds and other “green” products are on the market, and these products often break down, rot, or deteriorate within a few months of regular usage.

However, all of these designs have their own drawbacks.

Images